Bhondsi Forest

Bhondsi Forest: An Ecological Corridor Located in the Aravallis, south of Gurugram. A semi-evergreen terrain with rocky ledges, dry foliage, and seasonal water bodies. It is home to 46% of Haryana’s bird species including the Indian pitta and Indian eagle owl . And it also serves as a crucial ecological corridor linking fragmented green zones.

Bhondsi Forest

Threats to Bhondsi’s Bird Habitat

  • Unethical Wildlife Photography
    • Large influx of photographers in March (breeding season).
    • Use of recorded bird calls to attract birds—causes stress and nest abandonment.
    • Ground-nesting species like Indian paradise flycatcher at risk.
    • Bird nests are being destroyed by careless photographers.
  • Poaching of Birds
    • The Indian eagle owl is targeted due to superstitions linking it to wealth and mysticism.
    • Reports of entire nests disappearing within 48 hours, with evidence of netting material found.
    • Proposed Conservation Measures
    • Strict regulations for ethical birdwatching and photography.
    • Signage to prohibit playback calls and ensure a safe distance from nests.
    • Forest officials to monitor poaching activities through rotational deployment.
    • Regulated trekking trails to reduce direct human interference in bird breeding zones.
Bhondsi Forest

Government Response

  • Haryana Forest Minister Rao Narbir Singh has ordered stricter wildlife protection measures.
  • Deployment of forest guards and range officers to curb poaching and disturbance.